Thousands flock to New Year’s Day yoga in Mizner

Every inch of Mizner Amphitheater was covered with a yoga mat New Year’s day. Even the second-floor balconies. Yoga Journey founder Leslie Glickman wasn’t surprised thousands came for Something Big, her free yoga class. Fifteen-hundred had checked in online.

In the crowd were young and older. More males, mostly females. Singles, couples, even families.

James Spence, 34, was a former body builder with back pain. Practicing yoga for three years, “I feel so much better,” he said. “I’m ecstatic I came.”

“I haven’t done yoga in many years. This gave me a sense of peace,” said Jocelyn Francis, 70.

“We need this glue in the community,” agreed Millie Raphael, 65.

“We truly do have something special here,” said Andy Glickman, before introducing their first honoree, Connected Warriors. The Boca-based nonprofit uses a form of yoga to help veterans get back on track.

Then his wife Leslie led the class with a running commentary that ended with the crowd arm in arm. “I see a sea of gratitude. This is how we’re meant to move into this new year,” she said.